Staff Spotlight: Emily Skorupa - dispatcher in LPS Transportation

November 22, 2024

Every week, we’ll shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! Get to know the wonderful people making a positive impact across various areas within LPS. This week, meet Emily Skorupa, dispatcher in LPS Transportation.

“Emily keeps the entire department running smoothly. She has so much knowledge about every transportation employee, our entire fleet and every child who rides on our buses, that we would be lost without her. If there's a problem, she handles it without any judgment and a lot of times with humor. You can go to her with any question and she never makes you feel bad for asking.” - Lisa Winchester, bus driver, LPS Transportation

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.
I assign drivers to open routes, arrange substitutes for absences and coordinate openings with drivers’ open times. I also take calls from schools and patrons and communicate with drivers over our radio system.

How long have you worked for LPS?
This March marks 25 years.

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
I started working part time in the afternoons doing data entry. I then moved into a secretary position, and from there to dispatcher. It was never my intent to make it a lifelong career, but the fast-paced environment and my incredibly dedicated coworkers made me stay.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
My favorite part has been seeing LPS grow and expand over the years. From back when Head Start and Early Childhood Special Education were in their infancy, to the advent of Independence Academy and The Career Academy, it’s so rewarding to look back and see how far we’ve come—all for the betterment of our student body.

The most rewarding part has been meeting some truly remarkable people: drivers and paras who are modern-day unspoken heroes. They are the rockstars of our department, and they do not get the accolades they deserve. They drive in blistering heat, freezing cold, rain, snow and sleet, and they do it all because they love these kids. I’m very proud to call them my coworkers and friends!

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I spent my formative years in Lincoln’s Catholic school system. Go ‘Bolts!

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
I started working at LPS the year after I graduated. My formal education was in the classroom of the dispatch office!

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
I love our diversity, our students and our staff. I hope everyone feels truly welcome here. Every single person adds beauty to our city.

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
“The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein. It represents so many people I’ve met here. People that fully give of themselves for the betterment of their neighbors.

Share a shout out to a teacher who impacted your life.
My high school accounting teacher Mr. Jake Moore. He loved his job and the kids, and it showed. He was also our volleyball coach, leading our school to several Class B state volleyball championships!

Do you know a LPS staff member we should feature for Staff Spotlight? Fill out this form to nominate them!

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